The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Simcoe County branch unveiled its new crisis intervention and community response program on Thursday.
Its new facility will house programming designed to deliver immediate crisis stabilization and mental health supports through a range of integrated services, including crisis phones operating around the clock, sis crisis beds available 24/7, six justice safe beds and community-based mobile support.
The justice safe beds, for example, are a diversion from incarceration for people who do not meet the criteria for hospital admission.
Referrals to the community beds program can be made by contacting the crisis line and referrals to the justice safe beds can be made by local and regional police services.
“They just need to call, that’s all,” said Kerry Dault, crisis intervention and community response program manager. “We help people navigate the services, too.”
The 7,000-square-foot, downtown facility does not offer walk-in services, but it can handle a maximum of 12 clients at a time and also has showers, single-bed rooms and a lounge.
“The difference now is we have relocated and added six justice beds that are a direct resource for people, plus an Indigenous navigator, an outreach worker and a nurse as well,” Dault said.
Three to nine CMHA employees can be working at any one time there. They handle 1,200 to 1,400 crisis line calls a month, Dault said.
The program offers 24/7 support for individuals, agencies and in emergencies, with experts in mental health, addiction and suicide intervention, help with stability, coping and resources, navigation aid and community information, and youth options for those less than 16 years old.
“It’s when people need that extra support,” said Tori Ewles, a community and crisis support worker. “It’s kind of like a helping hand at the time.”
In-person help is available, if needed, coordinated through the crisis line, which is confidential, except for emergencies.
Community resources and emergency services can request and arrange in-person mobile support in the community.
CMHA’s Simcoe County branch provides services and supports for individuals experiencing mental health and addiction issues, including problem gambling.
It offers a broad range of services and supports in the community, as well as a variety of social, educational, vocational, rehabilitation, specialized, and internal programs.
The branch serves all members of a diverse community, including those of different race, culture, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability and age.
The crisis line numbers are 705-728-5044 or toll free at 1-888-893-8333.
For more information, visit cmhastarttalking.ca.